What does a teardrop tattoo on the eye mean

Tattoos have a long and fascinating history on their own, representing a complex world that may be hidden to some. Many designs not only communicate a distinct identity but also declare remarkable beliefs. But jail tattoos take it up a notch: despite the hard setting that these tattoos come from, many of them carry rich symbolismoften blending the esoteric with the practical, the shocking with the plain. Many of these jailhouse tattoos have crossed over to mainstream culture, although some people might be unaware of their origins.

A teardrop tattoo is a small tattoo in the shape of a teardrop near one or both eyes. It is closely associated with gang and prison culture, where it often indicates one has served time, one has been humiliated, or one has killed. Others may get such a tattoo to represent sorrow or loss. While the practice is almost certainly older, written evidence for teardrop tattoo comes in the s, noted in a New Yorker article about a Mexican gang member who spent time in prison. The symbolism of the teardrop tattoo widely varies, however. This tattoo often appears under the left eye. Notable wearers are said to include convicted felon Jeremy Meeks, who went viral for an attractive mugshot.

What does a teardrop tattoo on the eye mean

The teardrop tattoo or tear tattoo is a symbolic tattoo of a tear that is placed underneath the eye. The teardrop is one of the most widely recognised prison tattoos [1] and has various meanings. It can signify that the wearer has spent time in prison, [2] [3] or more specifically that the wearer was raped while incarcerated and tattooed by the rapist as a "property" mark and for humiliation, since facial tattoos cannot be concealed. The tattoo is sometimes worn by the female companions of prisoners in solidarity with their loved ones. It can acknowledge the loss of a friend or family member: Basketball player Amar'e Stoudemire has had a teardrop tattoo since honouring his older brother Hazell Jr. In West Coast gang culture USA , the tattoo may signify that the wearer has killed someone [11] [12] and in some of those circles, the tattoo's meaning can change: an empty outline meaning the wearer attempted murder. Sometimes the exact meaning of the tattoo is known only by the wearer: [12] [13] Portuguese footballer Ricardo Quaresma has never explained his teardrop tattoos. Contents move to sidebar hide. Article Talk. Read Edit View history.

It is closely associated with gang and prison culture, where it often indicates one has served time, one has been humiliated, or one has killed. The teardrop tattoo has been a popular design in the tattoo industry for years, symbolizing a variety of meanings from loss to triumph.

Jail staff can stay safer by knowing as much as they can about inmates. Here are 15 tattoos and their secret meanings. Know a different meaning for the tattoos displayed here? Share it in the comments. Be sure to check out more of our coverage on prison tattoos, including 15 more prison tattoos and their meanings , 12 Russian prison tattoos and their meanings , and a collection of inmate takes on prison ink. The numbers 14 or 88 on their own can also be used, which sometimes creates confusion.

In the intricate tapestry of body art, few designs stir as much intrigue and controversy as the teardrop tattoo. A small, simple outline of a drop beneath the eye, this tattoo carries a weight far beyond its modest size. Historically enveloped in a cloak of mystery and dark connotations, the teardrop tattoo has been a symbol met with both curiosity and caution. Its meanings are as varied as they are profound, often rooted in loss, sorrow, or the endurance of challenging times. Yet, in some circles, misinterpretations abound, leading to widespread speculation about the wearer's past and intentions.

What does a teardrop tattoo on the eye mean

A teardrop tattoo is a small tattoo in the shape of a teardrop near one or both eyes. It is closely associated with gang and prison culture, where it often indicates one has served time, one has been humiliated, or one has killed. Others may get such a tattoo to represent sorrow or loss. In some places, the tattoo can mean a lengthy prison sentence, while in others it signifies that the wearer has committed murder. If the teardrop is just an outline, it can symbolize an attempted murder.

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The three-dot tattoo is usually found around the eyes, or on the hands near the base of the thumb, and unlike other jailhouse tattoos, the three-dot tattoo is most often created using the stick-and-poke method with makeshift tools. Creating the perfect teardrop tattoo requires skill, precision, and the right tools. The Brotherhood makes up 1 percent of the inmate population, but are responsible for 20 percent of murders inside of U. However, some nazi symbols are less pronounced. Other details of the crown, such as the colors of the jewels in the points, can have a whole other level of hidden meanings. Another tattoo reserved for high-ranking members of the Russian Mafia, the eight-pointed star tattoo denotes that the person is a highly respected member of the Vor , a moniker for the Russian mob. As a creative soul, Mike's passion for arts, culture, music, and lifestyle shines through his engaging writing. What does teardrop tattoo mean? Some take it upon themselves to warn others of those negative connotations of the teardrop tattoo. Next: 15 more prison tattoos and their meanings.

When you buy via the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. The teardrop tattoo is often used as a trope in movies as a gang or prison tattoo. Teardrop tattoos can be very meaningful.

European countries the United States. Many of these jailhouse tattoos have crossed over to mainstream culture, although some people might be unaware of their origins. Leave a Comment Cancel Reply Your email address will not be published. It can also mean that the person with this tattoo sees life as a gamble, pushing their luck and usually losing. The teardrop tattoo or tear tattoo is a symbolic tattoo of a tear that is placed underneath the eye. These machines offer high-quality features such as adjustable needles and varying speed settings, allowing artists to perfect their craft while keeping costs low. With a keen eye for detail, he delves into the world of tattoos, exploring their rich symbolism and captivating stories. Tattoos and tattooing. Latin Kings have a huge presence both in and out of prison, and their roots go back to the s. Here are some jailhouse tattoos and their hidden meanings: Table of Contents. The teardrop has been popularized recently by rappers and other celebrities, but still remains a staple in prisons. Retrieved 28 February